Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: Easy and Delicious Dessert
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as effortless to prepare as it is delicious, the lemon cream cheese dump cake is the perfect pick. With its bright, tangy lemon flavor, smooth cream cheese layer, and golden, buttery cake topping, this treat strikes a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Best of all, it comes together with just a handful of basic ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for everything from weekday dinners to festive gatherings.
What Is a Dump Cake?
Before we dive into the specifics of the lemon cream cheese dump cake, it’s important to understand what a dump cake is. Unlike traditional cakes that require precise mixing, measuring, and layering, dump cakes are as simple as their name suggests. You literally “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and bake.
Why Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Is a Must-Try
Lemon cream cheese dump cake isn’t just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile and utterly delicious. The tangy lemon pie filling provides a refreshing citrus flavor, while the cream cheese layer adds a velvety richness. On top of that, the buttery cake mix crust brings the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this dessert is foolproof. Plus, it’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy family treat, or dress it up with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dinner party dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible dessert:
For the Cake
- Lemon Pie Filling (2 cans, 21 oz each): This creates the base layer and provides that bright, tangy flavor.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds a rich and creamy middle layer.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Serves as the dry topping that bakes into a golden crust.
- Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, melted): Helps the cake mix form a crumbly, buttery topping.
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Fresh lemon zest
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries)
Instructions to make lemon cream cheese dump cake
1. Preheat the Oven
Before you start assembling your cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dessert bakes evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Add the lemon pie filling.
Spread both cans of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will create the tangy, fruity base of your dessert.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Next, drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the lemon pie filling. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it out, but don’t worry about making it perfect.
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface for an even crust.
5. Add the butter.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter is what transforms the dry mix into a golden, crumbly topping as it bakes.
6. Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
7. Let It Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice. Serve it warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon cream cheese dump cake is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it even further:
- Top with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cake.
- Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes the dessert extra indulgent.
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add a handful of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Sprinkle Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.
Customization Ideas About Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
One of the best things about dump cakes is how easy they are to customize. Here are some ideas to make your lemon cream cheese dump cake unique:
- Use a Different Pie Filling: Swap out the lemon pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or peach for a completely different flavor.
- Experiment with Cake Mixes: Try white cake mix or lemon cake mix instead of yellow for a lighter or tangier topping.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or graham cracker crumbs over the cake mix before adding the butter for extra texture.
- Mix in Fresh Lemon Zest: Stir a teaspoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for an even brighter citrus flavor.
- Go Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter for a dairy-free version of this dessert.
Tips for Success
Making a dump cake is straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure perfect results every time:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is much easier to mix and spread. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before using.
- Distribute the Butter Evenly: Pouring the butter evenly over the cake mix ensures that the topping bakes uniformly. Use a spoon or a small pitcher for better control.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the topping and make the filling too thick. Check the cake at the 40-minute mark and bake just until the top is golden.
- Let It Cool Slightly: Cooling the cake for 10–15 minutes before serving allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate any leftovers. The cake will stay fresh for up to three days.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
There are countless reasons to fall in love with lemon cream cheese dump cake:
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients and no complicated steps, this dessert is ideal for even the busiest days.
- Bursting with Flavor: The tangy lemon filling, creamy middle layer, and buttery crust create a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors and toppings to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is always a hit at potlucks, parties, and family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the day before and reheat it just before serving for a stress-free dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes! Lemon cream cheese dump cake can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.
Can I Use Homemade Lemon Filling?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite lemon curd or pie filling recipe, feel free to use it in place of the canned filling. Just make sure to use the same amount.
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The biggest mistake is not evenly spreading the dry cake mix over the fruit or liquid base. If it’s uneven, parts of the mix won’t bake properly, leaving dry patches. To avoid this, ensure the mix is level, and don’t forget to drizzle butter evenly across the top.
Do you refrigerate leftover dump cake?
Yes, leftover dump cake should be refrigerated to keep it fresh. Since it often contains fruit and butter, leaving it at room temperature for too long can cause spoilage. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy it within a few days.
What else can be made from lemon cake mix?
Lemon cake mix is incredibly versatile! You can use it to make lemon bars, cookies, cupcakes, or even a trifle. Adding ingredients like fresh berries or a creamy glaze can transform it into a completely new dessert with minimal effort.
What is the dump method of cake making?
The dump method involves layering all the ingredients directly into the baking dish without mixing. Typically, you start with a fruit filling, followed by dry cake mix, and then butter on top. This no-fuss method is easy, making it perfect for quick and delicious desserts!
Conclusion
Lemon cream cheese dump cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves bright, tangy flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. With its effortless preparation, delicious layers, and endless customization options, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself to a dessert that’s as easy as it is irresistible. One bite, and you’ll see why lemon cream cheese dump cake is a favorite for dessert lovers everywhere!
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